Chapter 76
“I think it’s a wonderful idea. If it can get Lucian away from me, even if it’s for a short while. Then I’ll take it.”
Rowan smiled, happy that she was happy.
“You know he won’t go easily. You’d have to convince him too.”
I nodded, thinking that it was the least I could do.
“Yes. I’ll do that. If that’s all I have to do to get him out of here. I’ll gladly take it.”
“Great. I’ll inform him later this night. He’ll be shocked but it’s needed. I was going to send some of my betas, but I’ve decided he’s the perfect choice, given everything that’s been happening.”
“How long do you think he’ll be gone?” I asked Rowan, hopeful that it would be at least a few months.
At least it would be enough time for me.
“A few months. It all depends on how he chooses to handle the conflict when he gets there. So I guess in a way it’s also up to him. But we’ll see.”
“Thank you. For everything.”
I said softly. Rowan doesn’t say anything as he walked away.
………..
I was sitting by the window, the morning sun filtering through the curtains, when the door slammed open. I was startled, my hand flying to my chest as Lucian stormed in, his face twisted in anger.
"Can you believe it?" he growled, pacing back and forth like a caged animal. "Rowan is sending me to the borders to deal with rogue wolves! Me, of all people!"
I carefully schooled my expression, hiding the flicker of relief I felt. I had known about this since yesterday, thanks to Rowan. It was a calculated move, and one I secretly supported. Still, I forced a frown, feigning concern. "He's sending you away? Why would he do that?"
Lucian stopped pacing and turned to me, his eyes blazing. "Because he wants me out of the way, that's why! He's threatened by me, Arin. He knows I'm the only one who can challenge his claim to the throne. He knows if I’m here I’ll take everything from him.”
"That's not true," I said softly, standing and walking over to him. "Rowan values you, Lucian. You're his brother. Maybe he just trusts you to handle this because you're the best person for the job."
Lucian snorted, clearly unconvinced. "The best person for the job? Don't be naive. This is about power, Arin. He's trying to get rid of me."
I placed a hand on his arm, looking up at him with what I hoped was a convincing mix of sympathy and worry. "It's dangerous, Lucian. Rogue wolves are unpredictable. Maybe... maybe it's better if you stay here and talk to Rowan about this."
He shook his head, his jaw clenched. "I can't refuse an order from the Apha king, no matter how much I want to. But he's a fool if he thinks I won't see through his games."
I hesitated, choosing my words carefully. "You're right to be upset, but maybe this is an opportunity. Show Rowan you can handle this. Prove your worth. When you come back, no one will be able to doubt your strength or loyalty."
Lucian's expression softened slightly, but only for a moment. "I don't want to leave you," he said, his voice low. "You're my wife now, Arin. I should be here with you, not off risking my life at the borders."
I forced myself to look upset, though inside I was grateful for any excuse to avoid being around him. "I don't want you to go either," I said, my voice trembling just enough to sound convincing. "But you have to. It's your duty, Lucian."
He grabbed my hands, holding them tightly. "Come with me, then. You're my wife. You should be by my side."
I stiffened, my mind racing. The last thing I wanted was to be dragged to the dangerous borders with him. "Lucian, I can't," I said, shaking my head. "It's far too dangerous. If something happened to me, you'd never forgive yourself. And besides, I can be more useful here."
"Useful?" he echoed, frowning.
"Yes," I said, leaning closer to him. "I can keep an eye on things for you. I'll listen, observe, and tell you everything that happens while you're gone. You'll know exactly what Rowan is planning."
His grip on my hands tightened, and I could see the gears turning in his head. "You'd do that for me? You really would?”
"Of course," I said, forcing a small smile. "I'm your wife, Lucian. I'm on your side."
He studied me for a long moment, then sighed heavily. "I hate this," he muttered. "Leaving you here, letting Rowan have the upper hand... it feels wrong."
"I'll be fine," I assured him. "And you'll be back before you know it. Just promise me you'll be careful."
Lucian nodded reluctantly. "I'll go. But only because you've asked me to."
I smiled, pretending to be touched by his words. "Thank you, Lucian. It means a lot to me."
His mood darkened again as he glanced toward the bed. "It's a shame we won't have time for our wedding night before I leave."
My stomach twisted, but I kept my expression neutral. "It's not the right time anyway," I said gently. "You have so much to focus on. When you come back, we can truly celebrate."
Lucian sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I suppose you're right. I'll just have to wait."
I nodded, relief washing over me. "Exactly. And when you return, everything will be different. You'll see."
He pulled me into a tight embrace, his chin resting on the top of my head. "I'll hold you to that, Arin," he murmured.
I closed my eyes, willing myself to stay calm. "I'll be waiting."
Later that evening, as I watched Lucian's carriage disappear into the distance, I couldn't help but feel a sense of freedom. For the first time since our rushed marriage, I was alone. Lucian was gone, and though his absence might be temporary, it was a reprieve I desperately needed.
Now, all I had to do was ensure I played my part well enough to keep him believing I was devoted to him—and that Rowan never discovered the delicate web of lies I was weaving.
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